Movement I is lilting and lively in nature with a jazzy, syncopated interplay between the bassoon and piano. Some of these rhythmic materials employ mixed meters and hemiolas, while the harmonic and melodic materials make use of whole-tone scales and polytonality.

The piano opens movement II slowly with a series of polytonal and cluster chords to establish an air of meditative serenity. The bassoon enters with a sighing motive in the high register, gradually expanding to a broader expression of the theme, supported by frenetic arpeggios in the piano. The movement concludes with a return to a mood of tranquil, meditative melancholy and wistful peace.

The fast and spritely final movement is played, for the most part, in a light, staccato, and dance-like perpetual motion. The two voices again engage in playful syncopated exchanges throughout, and a brief cadenza provides momentum for the reeling conclusion. — N.G.